Chapter 23 - Integrated optics

Abstract

This chapter discusses the use of devices based on semiconductor materials. It reviews some of the materials and techniques that are involved in integrated optics. “Integrated optics” refers to a variety of techniques that have been employed to produce compact optical circuitry. It employs the waveguide transmission of light. Light can propagate in a medium that has higher index of refraction than the surrounding material. The propagation can have low loss. The ability of light to propagate as a trapped wave in a waveguide is one of the central foundations of the integrated optics. Other circuit devices, such as lasers, modulators, and detectors, can be fabricated in the same material as the waveguide, and can couple directly into the waveguide. The dimensions of the waveguide and the associated devices can be very small, so that many devices can be packed closely. The integrated optics offer advantages of freedom from variations and losses in the atmosphere. It also offers savings in the size and cost.